Cladrastis kentukea
American Yellowwood
A medium-sized native tree frequently used as a shade tree on smaller properties. Long, white panicles of intensely fragrant pea-like flowers drip from the branches in late spring. Bees swarm the trees when they flower. Flat seed pods are 4" long and last into early winter.
Yellow fall foliage contrasts nicely with the silver-gray, beech-like bark. The bark is very handsome in winter.
American yellowwood is a valuable source of pollen and nectar for bees and hummingbirds. It also provides nesting sites for birds.
- Deciduous, native shade tree
- Spectacular white flowers in May
- Yellow fall color
- Category: Tree, Native
- Hardiness Zone: 4-8
- Height: 30-50 ft
- Spread: 30-50 ft
- Bloom Color: White
- Foliage Color: Green
Specialty Use
| • | Wildlife Garden |
Habit
| • | Upright |
Foliage
| • | Deciduous |
Season of Interest (Flowering)
| • | Spring |
Season of Interest (Foliage)
| • | Fall |
Growth Rate
| • | Moderate |
Attributes
| • | Fall Color |
| • | Focal Point |
| • | Fragrant |
| • | Great Foliage |
| • | Low Maintenance |
| • | Native |
| • | Naturalizing |
| • | Specimen |
| • | Spring Bloomer |
Growing & Maintenance Tips for Cladrastis kentukea
Adapted to higher pH and acidic soils. Full sun is best but will grow in part shade. Prefers well-drained, moist, clay-based soil. Withstands some drought.